“Whoever conceals their sins does not prosper, but the one who confesses and renounces them finds mercy.” (Proverbs 28:13)
By Marty Anderson
It was an important presentation, and she knew it didn’t go well. In the past, her leaders had come down pretty hard and made her feel even worse. That would lead to better preparation next time, but it would also lead to a lot of anxiety and stress. She hoped her current leader was different … or at least he had been and she’d hoped he still would be.
When I hired Ashley from another department, I knew she was young in her career and would likely make mistakes. I also knew I had a reputation for excellence and that could put undue pressure on the people I led. But I had learned from a famous coach named Dean Smith that when people fail, it is most important to help them to “learn” from their mistakes and then forget them. Doing this makes it safe for people to take risks and perform at higher levels than they might believe possible.
So that’s how I tried to lead Ashley as well as everyone around me. When I became a follower of Jesus, I saw that same trait in him. Peter failed and Jesus restored him. He gave him mercy and gently challenged him to keep his eyes on Jesus and keep going!
So what about you? Do you come down on those you lead when they make mistakes? Or do you ask them “What did you learn from that failure?” and then encourage them to focus on that and to forget their mistake. Are there words or body language that you need to change in order to provide better leadership to those around you?
Pray
Lord, help me to be merciful to others as you have been to me.
Reflect
In what ways can you help others learn from their mistakes at work today?
Discuss
Share some ways you want to be a better leader at work and how others can pray for you.
Marty Anderson lives in Bloomington, Minnesota, with his wife Cecilia and enjoys contributing to WorkLight publications.